Best Mousse For Braids: Transform Your Braids With The Best Products
Your braids won’t be the same again with a braiding mousse to keep your locks shiny and in place!
On Jan 10, 2024 – 15 minutes read
With hair mousse for braids, hairstyling has become easier than ever before. You might have seen hairstylists use mousse to create seamless braids and dreadlocks. The best mousse for braids helps keep your locks perfectly in place and in style. From dense curls to wavy strands, hair mousse has enabled all hair types to embrace this versatile hairstyle.
Hair mousse helps keep your locks perfectly in place and in style. From dense curls to wavy strands, hair mousse has enabled all hair types to embrace this versatile hairstyle.
What does moussing do to your hair? How does it differ from hair gel? How do you select the best foaming mousse for your braids? Here we address all your questions. So, what’s the best mousse for braids?
What Is a Hair Mousse?
Hair mousse, also known as hair foam, is a versatile styling product available in foam or creamy formulations. Unlike hair gels, mousse provides a lightweight hold for braids without weighing the hair down or causing flakes once dry.
Setting foam for braids is lighter in texture than setting mousse. It is designed to add volume, hold, and texture to the hair, making it an excellent choice for creating various hairstyles, including braids.
Mousse on Wet or Dry Hair?
Mousse is usually applied to damp or wet hair before styling. It may not absorb well into dry hair, so lightly misting your hair with water before applying mousse will help achieve the desired result.
Why Use Hair Mousse for Braids?
One effective method to support your braided hair and prevent frizz, especially for intricate and long-lasting styles like box braids, is by using quality hair mousse. Even a small amount can make a significant difference, distinguishing between well-kept braids and unruly locks.
The main function of hair mousse is to provide hold and structure to hairstyles while boosting volume and texture. It works by enveloping the hair strands with polymers and resins, forming a protective film that adds body and support to the hair.
Additionally, mousse often contains conditioning agents that can improve the overall appearance and manageability of the hair. Investing in the best mousse for braids can truly transform your hair, offering benefits such as easier styling of your box braids, enhanced hold, and minimized frizz.
Hair braiders and stylists work their magic on your hair, and part of their secret lies in using the appropriate hair styling products. Whether you opt for intricate braids, a braid bob style, or any other braiding style, selecting the right products is crucial for achieving stunning results.
10 Best Mousse for Braids
1. GOIPLE Locks & Braid Foam Control
This braid mousse is specifically formulated to secure and maintain your braids for an extended duration, sealing in moisture while styling hair to prolong freshness. It is made with natural ingredients such as lavender flowers, leaf/stem extracts, and willow bark, and contains no alcohol, preservatives, dyes, or sulfates.
Features:
- High Gloss
- Mix fruit scent
- Alcohol-Free
- Suitable for All Hair Types
- Natural ingredients
Benefits:
- No Flake
- Extra Hold
- Locks in moisture and helps keep hairstyle longer.
2. AllDay Locks Braid Foam (Best Mousse for Braids Black Hair)
AllDay Locks Braid Foam is a lightweight formulation that is easy to spread, as it reduces frizzing, prevents flyaways, locks in moisture, and dries quickly. It also offers a more controlled and long-lasting hold to braid styles.
Features:
- Moisturizes & seals braids, locks, twists, cornrows
- Citrus scent
- Sulfate Free, Phthalate Free, Gluten Free, Paraben Free
Benefits:
- Moisturizing, Frizz Control, High Shine
- Controlled and long-lasting hold to all styles.
3. TRESemmé Tres Mousse Extra Hold
TRESemmé Tres Mousse Extra Hold is a game-changer and the best mousse for braids when it comes to holding and volume. Its lightweight formula provides long-lasting hold, ensuring your braids stay intact throughout the day.
Features:
- Unisex spray
- Unscented
- PETA approved
Benefits:
- Long-lasting hold for braids
- Weightless feel
- Fuller and more voluminous braids
4. OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Voluminous Mousse
The next best hair mousse for braids and twists that is Infused with the nourishing benefits of argan oil, OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Voluminous Mousse takes your braids to the next level. This mousse not only adds incredible volume but also moisturizes your hair, leaving it feeling soft and silky. Enjoy braids with a healthy shine and luxurious texture. It enhances the texture of your braids, leaving them looking glossy and luxurious.
Features:
- Enriched with argan oil
- Ultra luxurious, creamy whipped mousse
Benefits:
- Voluminous and moisturized braids
- Glossy and luxurious appearance
- No residue or flakiness
5. L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle Boost It Volume Inject Mousse
If you are looking for a hair mousse for braids that adds up volume, this is for you. When it comes to achieving maximum volume and lift for your hair, L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle Boost It Volume Inject Mousse is the go-to choice. This braid mousse adds body and dimension to your braids, creating a fuller and more voluminous look.
Features:
- Alcohol-free
- Unscented
- High-performance, lightweight aerated mousse
- Infused with thickening agents
Benefits:
- Gives lifeless hair a volume injection for 24 hours.
- Long-lasting, bouncy, and volumized look
6. Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse (Best Mousse for Knotless Braids)
If you’re looking for weightless volume and bounce, Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse is a must-try and comes under the best hair mousses for braids, especially for knotless braids. Its unique lightweight formula creates a natural-looking lift for your braids.
This mousse offers a flexible hold, enabling your braids to move naturally while retaining their shape and fullness all day long. You can expect weightless volume and bounce for your braids with this product.
Features:
- Lightweight formula
- For fine to medium hair
- Medium hold
Benefits:
- Weightless volume for braids
- Natural-looking lift and bounce
- Maintains flexibility and shape
7. John Frieda Luxurious Volume Perfectly Full Mousse (Best Mousse for Frizzy Braids)
Achieve luxuriously full and bouncy braids with John Frieda Luxurious Volume Perfectly Full Mousse, making it the ultimate choice and the top-rated hair mousse for braids. This mousse elevates volume from the roots, rejuvenating frizzy braids for a fresh look and imparting natural-looking fullness that endures all day. Embrace braids with remarkable body and fluidity, ensuring you capture attention wherever you go.
Features:
- Ultra-light formula
- Added caffeine vitality complex
Benefits:
- Luxuriously full and bouncy braids
- Lasting fullness without a crunchy feel
8. Redken Full Frame 07 All-Over Volumizing Mousse
Redken Full Frame 07 All-Over Volumizing is the best mousse for braids and is known for its versatility and ability to create touchable volume for all hair types. This braid mousse adds structure and manageability to your braids without weighing them down, allowing you to achieve perfectly styled and textured braids. Enjoy the freedom to create a variety of braided looks with this exceptional mousse.
Features:
- Lightweight formula
- Volumizing polymers for added lift
- Soft finish
Benefits:
- Anti-frizz protection
- Protects hair from heat and humidity
9. Joico JoiWhip Firm Hold Design Foam (Best Mousse for Braids)
For braids that require a firm hold and exceptional structure, Joico JoiWhip Firm Hold Design Foam is a go-to product. This one creates a strong hold while maintaining flexibility, making it an ideal braiding mousse for black hair and for intricate braided styles. Achieve braids that stay in place all day without compromising on style and movement.
Features:
- Mild scent
- Ideal for intricate braided styles
Benefits:
- Crunch-free volume
- Thermal protection up to 450° F
- Perfect for intricate and detailed braided hairstyles
10. Kenra Volume Mousse Extra 17
Kenra Volume Mousse Extra 17 is a sought-after hair mousse for braids that offers a lightweight formula with maximum hold, making it perfect for adding volume and structure to your braids. This mousse boosts your braids with long-lasting, gravity-defying volume, allowing you to achieve beautifully styled braided hairstyles with ease. Witness the power of voluminous braids that make a lasting impression on yourself.
Features:
- Lightweight formula
- Non-drying, non-flaking
Benefits:
- Weightless volume and structure for braids
- Provides thermal protection up to 450°F
- Provides styling control without stiffness or stickiness
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Mousse for Braids
Selecting the right mousse for your braids is crucial to achieving the desired hold, volume, and overall style. Consider the following factors when choosing a mousse that perfectly suits your needs:
- Hair Type: Consider your hair type when selecting a mousse. For fine or thin hair, opt for a lightweight mousse or hair foam for braids that adds volume without weighing it down. For thick or coarse hair, choose a mousse with extra hold to prevent braids from frizzing and keep them secure.
- Hold Strength: Determine the level of hold you prefer for your braids. If you want a natural and flexible hold, go for a braid mousse with a medium hold. For intricate braided styles requiring a firm hold, select a mousse with strong hold properties.
- Moisture Level: Assess your hair’s moisture needs. If your hair tends to be dry, look for a moisturizing mousse to keep your braids hydrated throughout the day. For oilier hair, opt for a braiding mousse that provides lightweight moisture without weighing it down. Setting foam for braids is an ideal option.
- Ingredients: Check the ingredients list to ensure the mousse meets your hair’s needs and preferences. Look for nourishing ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or keratin that offer additional benefits while maintaining the hold and style of your braids.
- Brand Reputation: Consider the brand’s reputation when selecting a mousse for braids. Trusted and established brands often have a history of producing high-quality hair products. Look for brands known for their effective and reliable styling products.
- Customer Reviews: Read customer reviews and feedback about the mousse you’re considering. Real-life experiences can offer insights into the mousse’s performance, hold, and compatibility with various hair types.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Take your budget into account. Mousse products are available at different price points. Determine your budget and explore options within that range, ensuring you prioritize factors like hold strength and ingredients to find the best value for your money.
How Hair Mousse Works on Different Hair Types
It is interesting how braids have evolved across cultures. For instance, tighter braid styles like box braids, cornrow braids, and micro braids are preferred by dense, thick, and curly hair due to the high tensile strength of such hair types.
A curly hair mousse can help to control frizz and define curls. It can also provide structure and hold for thicker or coarser hair, making it easier to style and manage. No matter the texture, hair mousse for braids will be a valuable addition to your routine.
On the other hand, wavy, medium-thick hair types usually choose resilient plaited braids that are tightly bound as a protective style against the elements.
What about lighter hair types? Well, they have their own versions of braids like the fishtail, French braids, and knotless braids that are gentler on thinner strands, but look just as gorgeous with their dimensional complexity.
For fine or thin hair, braiding mousse can provide a much-needed boost of volume and thickness.
How To Use Mousse for Braids?
Step 1: Start with Clean, Dry Hair: Ensure your hair is clean and dry before applying mousse. Mousse works best on freshly washed hair as it helps the product distribute evenly and adhere to the strands effectively.
Step 2: Choose the Right Mousse: You can find the best mousse for curly hair, straight hair, or whatever your hair type. Consider factors such as hold, volume, and nourishing properties. Refer to our list of top 10 hair mousse brands for braids for excellent options.
Step 3: Shake the Mousse Can: Shake the Mousse can well before use. This ensures that the product inside is mixed thoroughly and ready for application.
Step 4: Apply the Mousse: Dispense an appropriate amount of mousse onto your palm. The amount you need depends on the length and thickness of your hair. Start with a golf ball-sized amount and adjust accordingly.
Step 5: Distribute Evenly: Rub your hands together to evenly distribute the mousse. Then, run your fingers through your hair, focusing on the sections where you’ll be braiding. Ensure that the mousse is evenly applied from the roots to the tips.
Step 6: Comb or Brush: Use a wide-tooth comb or brush to comb through your hair, distributing the mousse further and detangling any knots or tangles. This step helps ensure that the mousse is evenly distributed and provides optimal hold and volume to your braids.
Step 7: Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into sections based on the braid style you want to create. Use clips or hair ties to secure the sections you’re not working on at the moment.
Step 8: Braid Your Hair: Begin braiding your hair in your preferred style, whether it’s a classic three-strand braid, fishtail braid, simple bubble braids, or intricate braided updos or braids bob. The braiding mousse will provide grip, hold, and added volume to your braids, making them easier to style and giving them a longer-lasting finish.
Step 9: Repeat if Needed: If you’re working with thick or long hair, you may need to apply mousse and repeat the process for each section to ensure consistent coverage and hold.
Step 10: Allow the Braids to Set: Once you’ve completed the braiding process, allow your hair to set for a few minutes. This allows the mousse to dry and set, providing a stronger hold and better longevity for your braids.
Step 11: Style and Finish: After the mousse has been set, you can style your braids further if desired. Add accessories like ribbons, beads, or flowers to accentuate your braided hairstyle. A finishing touch with a light hairspray will lock in the style and maintain the hold throughout the day.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Mousse
Choose the best mousse for natural hair so you don’t compromise your hair health for braids.
Tips To Maintain Your Braids in the Best Condition
Braids are not only stylish but comes with other benefits. They are a protective option for your hair. Just choosing the best mousse for braids does not make it useful. To ensure your braids stay in the best condition and last longer, follow these helpful tips:
Keep Your Scalp Clean: Maintaining a clean scalp is essential for the health of your braids. Use a gentle clarifying shampoo or sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse your scalp, paying attention to the roots of your braids. Gently massage your scalp to remove any buildup or dirt without disturbing the braids.
Moisturize Your Braids: Even with protective styling, your hair still needs moisture. Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner or moisturizing spray to keep your braids hydrated. Focus on the length of your braids, avoiding the scalp to prevent product buildup. Moisturizing regularly will help prevent dryness and breakage.
Protect Your Braids at Night: Cover your braids with a satin or silk scarf or sleep on a satin pillowcase to minimize friction and protect your braids while you sleep. This helps prevent frizz and helps your braids maintain their neat appearance. Braiding hair at night will protect it, but your braids too need the right care while you sleep.
Avoid Excessive Manipulation: To prolong the lifespan of your braids, minimize excessive touching, pulling, or tugging on them. Constant manipulation can cause frizz and loosen the braids. Style your braids in a way that requires minimal daily adjustments.
Foaming Mousse on Wigs and Weaves?
As with natural hair, mousse can enhance the texture your wig as well. The same rules apply when it comes to choosing the best mousse for your wig and applying the mousse to keep your weaves in place and frizz-free. A light mousse or setting foam can substitute the hair gel you use to keep the lace frontal sticking to your wig cap.
Limit The Use of Heat: Excessive heat can weaken the hair and cause damage. Minimize the use of hot styling tools such as flat irons or curling irons on your braids. Use heatless styling tools when possible. If you need to apply heat, use a heat protectant spray and set the tool to a low temperature.
Protect Your Braids from Environmental Factors: When exposing your braids to the sun, wind, or chlorinated water, take precautions to protect them. Wear a hat or scarf to shield your braids from harmful UV rays and cover them when in chlorine-filled pools or saltwater. These measures will help prevent color fading and dryness.
Schedule Regular Maintenance: Depending on your hair type and the style of your braids, schedule regular touch-ups and maintenance appointments with your hairstylist. They can re-tighten loose braids, fix frizz, and ensure your braids look their best.
Avoid Overwearing Braids: Although braids are a protective style, it’s important not to keep them in for too long. Leaving braids in for an extended period can lead to hair breakage or tension alopecia. If your braids are too tight and pulling on your scalp, there are ways you can loosen them. Consult with your hairstylist to determine the ideal duration for your braids based on your hair’s needs.
Be Gentle When Removing Braids: When it’s time to remove your braids, be gentle to avoid causing unnecessary damage to your hair. Use a detangling spray or oil to help loosen the braids, and carefully unravel them without pulling or tearing your hair. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and nourish your hair.
Take Care of Your Natural Hair: While your hair is braided, don’t neglect your natural hair underneath. Keep your scalp and hairline clean, moisturized, and free from product buildup. This will ensure healthy hair growth and a smooth transition once the braids are removed.
FAQ
Use a lightweight braid mousse with a strong hold designed specifically for braids.
Yes, mousse is good for braiding. It provides hold, reduces frizz, adds moisture, and enhances the longevity and appearance of braided hairstyles.
Yes, mousse can help refresh braids by revitalizing the style, reducing frizz, and adding moisture when applied and gently worked into the braids.
Hair gel is used for firmly structured hairstyles, whereas a mousse is lightweight and better suited for hairstyles requiring movement and hold.
Foam provides lightweight flexibility and volume, while mousse offers a balance of hold and texture, so the choice will depend on your styling needs.
Yes, it’s generally fine to use mousse every day, but choose a mousse with a lightweight, non-damaging formulation and avoid overuse to prevent product buildup or drying effects.
It is better to apply mousse to damp or wet hair to ensure even distribution and prevent dry flakes.
Final Word
Maintaining your crown takes a lot of effort, and the right products can make a whole world of difference. Now that we have revealed the best mousse for braids, well, one of our favorites could soon become yours too!
Based on the specifications and features, choose the best label that is perfect for your hair type and braiding style. Investing in a good mousse will change the way you look at and feel about your braids.
For more such guides on all things beauty, stay tuned to our website!
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Samantha is a versatile and sought-after beauty guru. Her mastery extends to hair care, skin care and women’s lifestyle, while staying ahead of the ever-evolving trends.
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